What does it cost?
For The Volvo C30 offers composed handling, stylish looks and a classy, well-built interior. Most models are attractively priced and affordable to run, too.
Against Many rivals have more rear legroom and its boot is small. The low-speed ride is unsettled and the steering doesn't provide enough feedback.
What Car? says
The Volvo C30 puts ticks in most of the right boxes – it has a classy cabin and is decent to drive – but it isn't as much fun or as practical as key rivals.
What Car? readers say
3.894737
There are 6 Volvo C30 versions available
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
The Volvo C30 stands out from other small family hatchbacks, with dimunitive dimensions and distinctive styling that mean it looks more like a coupe.
Practicality is not as bad as you might think, but the boot is small and space in the two rear seats isn't as generous as in more conventional small hatches.
No matter, the Volvo has a classy cabin finish, and performance from the range of petrol and diesel engines is good.
It's also good to drive, helped by being based on the same platform as the Ford Focus. The C30 handles neatly and makes for a good motorway cruiser, although the low-speed ride is a bit firm.
All C30s are well equipped and build quality is not an issue. Nor is safety equipment, as you would expect of a Volvo, while security is also a strong point.
The incredibly frugal and clean DRIVe model with the start/stop system is our favourite.
Reader test team says:
Volvo C30 Hatchback 1.6D R-Design Sport 3dr
I've only owned my car for about a week but I have to say how impressed I am with it. The smooth power delivery from the fantastic 1.6D engine really…
5
out of 5 stars
Volvo C30 Hatchback 1.6D DRIVe SE 3dr
I sold my C30 (59 plate) in March this year basically because it is a style statement not in any shape or form practical, so please bear this is mind…
4
out of 5 stars
Volvo C30 Hatchback 1.6D DRIVe SE 3dr
I have owned the C30 for 18 months from new. The gear shift is horrendous, it is extremly difficult to move up & down through the gears, often…
2
out of 5 stars
Volvo C30 Hatchback 1.6D DRIVe S Start/Stop 3dr
Mines white (is that a typical female comment??) , Find this model is a headturner, very responsive but frugle engine, a joy to drive!! Had to have…
4
out of 5 stars
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Our pick of the range
Volvo C30 Hatchback 1.6D DRIVe ES S/S 3dr
What with this model's cheap running costs and the fact that it's well equipped despite being one of the cheapest C30s, it's one of the best models in the range.
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